Japanese researchers at the RIKEN Institute have discovered a breakthrough method using modified manganese (MnO₂) to supercharge green hydrogen production—boosting output by an astonishing 1,000% and eliminating the need for costly metals like iridium.
The team engineered the common metal’s lattice structure to form stronger oxygen bonds, creating a highly efficient proton-exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyser catalyst. Not only does it rival noble-metal alternatives in corrosion resistance and stability, but it also promises a major reduction in production costs.
This innovation addresses a major green hydrogen barrier—expensive PEM catalytic materials—by offering a low-cost, scalable option. Next steps include real-world testing and durability assessments to verify performance under industrial conditions.
As the world races toward a carbon-free future, RIKEN’s manganese catalyst holds the potential to make green hydrogen commercially viable on a global scale.
sources
m.economictimes.com